SIR BOBBY CHARLTON has urged his fellow knight Sir Alex Ferguson to scotch any thoughts of retirement and drive Manchester United on to more glory.

“The record of 19 league titles goes down purely to Alex,” said Sir Bobby Charlton as Sir Alex Ferguson prepares to chase a 20th. “It would not have been possible without him. He is the epitome of everything that is good about Manchester United and the ethos of this great club.

“There is no point suggesting anybody else to be manager of Manchester United because there is no one around who can fill his boots. I hope he can carry on for a long time yet. Alex is in control.”